Bulleen vs Templestowe Melbourne — Which Is Better?

We’ve spent time in both Bulleen and Templestowe to give you an honest comparison. If you’re choosing between these two suburbs — for living, investing, or just knowing where to eat — here’s the real picture for 2026. Our verdict: Bulleen edges it overall, but it depends on what you prioritise.

Side-by-Side Comparison

Bulleen in 90 Seconds

Bulleen is a suburb that has more depth than you expect. Residential suburb along the Yarra River. Bulleen Art & Garden nursery is a local institution. Eastern Freeway access. The dining scene runs from $8-14 for casual meals to $18-32 for a proper sit-down dinner. The suburb has a growing community identity and improving infrastructure.

Templestowe in 90 Seconds

Templestowe contrasts with Bulleen in most categories. Borders the Yarra River with excellent parkland. Tikalara Park and Westerfolds Park. Expect to pay $4.50-5.50 for coffee and $28-45 for dinner. The suburb has a food scene that punches above its weight.

Head-to-Head: Cost of Living

The weekly rent difference between Bulleen ($282/wk) and Templestowe ($441/wk) is noticeable. Groceries and daily costs are similar in both suburbs. Coffee runs $4.00-4.50 in Bulleen versus $4.50-5.50 in Templestowe. For eating out, Bulleen ranges $18-32 for dinner while Templestowe sits at $28-45. Over a year, the cost difference between the two is about $8,268 in rent alone.

Head-to-Head: Dining Scene

Bulleen has a diverse food scene with strong multicultural options. Templestowe counters with a stronger cafe game. For cheap eats, both suburbs deliver well under $15 — Bulleen leans toward burgers and pizza while Templestowe favours Asian fusion.

Head-to-Head: Lifestyle

If you want parks and outdoor space, Templestowe has the edge. Shopping is better anchored in Bulleen. For nightlife and evening options, neither suburb is exactly Chapel Street — but Bulleen has more going on after 8pm. Weekend activities are a toss-up, with both suburbs offering community events and sports clubs.

Head-to-Head: Families

Both suburbs cater to families, but in different ways. Bulleen offers more school choice, while Templestowe has better weekend activities for kids. For school quality, check the MySchool data — but both suburbs have options that locals rate highly.

Head-to-Head: Transport

Bulleen is 13km, no direct train, 20min drive — accessible. Templestowe sits at 14-22km, 25-38min train, 20-30min drive. For driving, both suburbs have improving road networks. Public transport: both are similarly served.

Who Should Choose Bulleen

• You prioritise space
• You want a quieter suburb with room to grow
• You prefer growing food and cafe options
• Budget: $282/wk rent, $18-32 dinners

Who Should Choose Templestowe

• You prioritise lifestyle options
• You want a suburb on the upswing
• You prefer a bit more action
• Budget: $441/wk rent, $28-45 dinners

Our Verdict

Bulleen takes this one — but not by much. The deciding factors are transport access and lifestyle options. If you want the better food scene, go with Bulleen. The other suburb is still a solid choice and may suit you better depending on your specific needs.

Explore More

• Bulleen Complete Guide — everything about Bulleen
• Templestowe Complete Guide — everything about Templestowe
• Bulleen Best Cafes — where to eat in Bulleen
• Templestowe Best Cafes — where to eat in Templestowe
• Compare Suburbs Tool — detailed side-by-side
• Moving to Bulleen — full relocation guide

FAQ

Which is cheaper, Bulleen or Templestowe?

Rent in Bulleen averages $282/wk vs $441/wk in Templestowe. Daily costs (coffee, groceries, transport) are similar in both suburbs.

Which is better for families?

Both work for families. Bulleen has more school options. Templestowe has more childcare spots.

How far are they from Melbourne CBD?

Bulleen: 13km, no direct train, 20min drive. Templestowe: 14-22km, 25-38min train, 20-30min drive.

Last updated: March 2026